Here are some details about the malignant brain tumor of Senator Edward Kennedy.
The tumor is a glioma, so called because it arises from glial cells in the brain. The American Cancer Society website has an excellent backgrounder on brain and spinal cord cancers. An excerpt:
Glial cells are the main brain cells that can develop into cancer. Most adult brain tumors are glial cell cancers — sometimes called gliomas… Normal glial cells grow and divide very slowly. Most brain and spinal cord tumors develop from glial cells.
The Boston Globe has a thorough special report, including articles and a graphic of the brain.
The Chicago Tribune says his situation is “dire, but not hopeless.” U.S. News and World Report says it “can be fought.” Reuters, meanwhile, is leaping forward to talk about his legacy.